Organizations Support Families That Deal With Cancer

Leukemia is the leading cause of cancer deaths for children and young adults under the age of 20. But there is hope and support from groups that assist Wiregrass families.

Christa Berkowitz, a “Light the Night” committee member works with families that have a child battling cancer.

"It's an emotional rollercoaster for one its up and down, you know one minute, your child maybe on the up swing of things and the next minute they contract a viral or a fungal infection," said Berkowitz.

That's why organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society pick up those families that are falling because of the heartache.

"Anyway we can, we're there for support, monetary support. We can always give them the contact information if they need education resources," said Berkowitz.

Raising more than eighty-thousand dollars during the Light the Night Walk in Dothan, Berkowitz makes sure families have a shoulder to lean on. Christi Sasser is a mother who is thankful for the help. Her family lives in Andalusia and they are currently dealing with their son Cooper who is going through treatments for Leukemia.

"We appreciate the small things in life now we don't take anything for granted we're so very thankful and we're praising the Lord for all of the wonderful people that have helped us," said Sasser

In the midst of the financial and moral support to families, more work needs to be done. For example, increased awareness.

"The more people that become aware, the more people will be wanting to fund research," said Sasser.

That extra funding from community members and organizations will continue to pay tribute to the lives and families touched by blood cancer. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society will hold its' "Light the Night Walk" again this year. Last year it was a huge success in raising funds.

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